As part of an overall effort to improve transparency in the food supply chain, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is launching the Farmer Seed Liaison Initiative. The purpose of …
Some Surprises in USDA Prospective Planting Reports
The USDA’s Prospective Planting Report was not without some surprises. Gary Crawford reports. Listen to USDA Gary Crawford’s report here. The USDA’s Prospective Plantings Report shows corn planted area will …
Production Challenges and Opportunities for California Prune Growers
California prune growers anticipate new production opportunities as the UC Davis Prune Breeding Program announced its latest cultivars have the potential to extend the production season. Program Manager Sarah Castro …
‘Product of USA’ Rules Draws Ire from Other Countries
Canada and Mexico have both raised concerns about the finalized “Product of USA” labeling rule from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Mexico’s Ministry of Economy is rejecting the rule …
Mosquito Biology as a Control Tool
Why knowing more about mosquito biology will help in controlling them. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. Having an understanding about the biology of mosquitos will help in …
Bird Flu Found in Texas Dairy Cows, NCBA Issues Statement
A mysterious disease has been working its way through the Texas Panhandle, puzzling the agriculture industry. Today, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller received confirmation from the United States Secretary of …
Week in Review: Ag Export Complications & Cover Cropping Incentives
Incentive programs are a vital component to enable farmers to implement new production approaches in their operations. Agricultural exports are trending down from a post-pandemic peak as experts deal with …
WRCCA Offering Funding Opportunities to Support the Next Generation of Agronomists
Western Region Certified Crop Advisors (WRCCA) is offering scholarships to students who plan to enter the agricultural workforce. A total of four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to undergraduates. “Those …
Researchers: Blue-Green Algae Can Protect Honey Bees
A new way to protect important pollinators. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. Scientists at USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) developed an edible antiviral treatment that can be …
USDA Seeks National Hass Avocado Board Nominees
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking nominations for the Hass Avocado Board to fill eight seats that are set to expire on October 31. Seats include four for domestic …
Ascochyta Blight Discovered in Central Valley Garbanzo Beans
The presence of Ascochyta blight was confirmed in garbanzo bean fields in the Central Valley last month. Agronomy and Nutrient Management Advisor, Nick Clark said the discovery was made in …
Week in Review: Growers Anticipate Good Year for Citrus & California Grape Crush Increases
California citrus farmers are finding ways to adapt to the challenges of the current production year. Foreign markets play a critical role in the U.S. pistachio industry, with expectations for …
Input Sought for National Grape and Wine Industry Survey
A nationwide project supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to benefit the grape and wine industry is seeking engagement from stakeholders. The project titled “Enhancing regional grape and wine …
2023 Grape Crush Report Shows Increase in Tonnage and Average Prices
The California Final Grape Crush Report has been released for 2023, featuring increases in tonnage and average prices. The total grape crush reached 3,899,710 tons, a 6.2 percent increase from …